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FAQ’s for Voters

Who can register to vote?

To be eligible to vote in Connecticut you must:

  • Be a United States citizen.
  • Be a resident of a Connecticut town.
  • Be at least 17 years old, so long as you will be18 on Election Day.

Once I register to vote, do I ever have to reregister?

Your registration is permanent, with two exceptions:

  • If you move your residence within your town or to another town, change your name, or alter your party enrollment, you must register in your new town of residence.
  • If you are under the supervisionof the Judicial or Corrections Department as a result of a felony conviction (other than non-support), your voting rights are forfeited until all aspects of your sentence have been completed. You must provide documentation of the completion of your sentence to your local Registrar of Voters in order to have your voting rights restored. Contact 1-866-986-8464 (Democracy Works Voting Rights Restoration Project) for more information.

How do I know that my registration has been received and approved?

Within three weeks of handing in your registration, you should receive an approval form from the Registrar of Voters. If you do not receive the approval, then you should contact the Registrar of Voters at your town hall or town office building.

Do I need to bring ID when voting?

Yes. Everyone needs to show identification at the polls. Acceptable forms of ID are a Driver’s License, Social Security card, or any form of ID with either (a) your name and address, (b) your name and signature or (c) your name and photo. If you forget to bring your ID, then you can sign a list under penalty of a false statement, verifying your identification. Not having an acceptable form of identification does not take away your right to vote.

Is my vote secret?

Yes. You don’t have to tell anyone how you vote in elections.

What do I do if I have a disability or need help while voting?

Federal statutes, such as the “Help America Vote Act,” require that persons with a disability are able to vote privately and independently. If the polling place that you have been assigned is not able to meet your needs, then do not hesitate to contact Marisa Morello, HAVA Project Manager for the Connecticut Secretary of the State at (860)509-6267 orMarisa.morello@po.state.ct.us.

What is an absentee ballot, and when can it be used?

An absentee ballot allows individuals to vote if they can’t be atthe polling place on Election Day. Absentee ballots may be obtained through your Town Clerk in advance of the election.

When should I hand in my registration card in order to vote in this year’s local election?

If you are going to mail in your voter registration card then it needs to be postmarked by October 25 th . If you are going to hand deliver your card to the town clerk or registrar, it can be handed in by November 1 st .